Post by Tobias Bayer

Golden Boy - One of the most remarkable success stories in Italian fashion over the last 25 years is the one of Golden Goose. Founded as a contemporary label by two skaters, Alessandro Gallo and Francesca Rinaldo, who talked to a rather small niche, it's become a global lifestyle brand. It's now been acquired by HSG and Temasek. From 2020 to 2025 alone, it increased its consolidated sales from 266 to 734 Mio. Euros. Here's the aspect that I personally find astounding: Despite the exit of its founders and several changes in ownership, where a couple of private equity investors succeeded one another, Golden Goose has remained consistent in its message. That's thanks to its CEO, Silvio Campara. When I met the former Alexander McQueen and Armani exec for an interview, he sounded to me more like an owner-entrepreneur than a typical manager. “Entrepreneurs are usually too involved, while managers are usually too detached. I do my best to strike the right balance,” Silvio told me. He resembled a bit Domenico De Sole, who first led Gucci and later Tom Ford. The new majority owner HSG seems to understand how important it is to keep Silvio and has confirmed him as CEO. Here's my question for you: How should companies deal with the risk that a top manager or creative who's had an outsize contribution might leave? For all of you who want to know more about Golden Goose's next chapter, check out my feature in TextilWirtschaft by clicking on the link in the comments below. Happy Saturday!! (Credit: Giovanni Gastel)